Global Gastropubs In L.A. - Food Trends

By Tasting Table Staff/May 17, 2013 12:21 pm EST

Thought the reign of the gastropub was over?

Not by a long shot.

Just like the ways of the former British empire, the influence of pub cuisine has expanded well beyond bangers, beer and burgers into new international territory. Here are three new spots that will please your globe-trekking stomach:

Cinco: Share Oaxacan tlayudas ($9) overstuffed with quesillo, black beans and al pastor, or fried memela cakes topped with flaky carnitas ($5), at this new-wave Mexican bar near LAX. There's a wide selection of mezcal, or try the smoky spirit blended with tequila añejo and Strega liqueur in the potent Tres Brujas ($11)

T he Black Sheep: Hidden next door to the ever-bustling Cole's, this dimly lit, Asian-inflected gastropub is easy to overlook. Once your drink has been poured, opt for a crispy Thai chicken burger ($8), sluiced with sweet chile sauce, coconut mayonnaise and Sriracha; or the hefty Korean cheesesteak ($7).

Badmaash: Taking cues from old-school Bollywood action flicks, Downtown's Badmaash kicks classic Desi staples in the pants with dishes like zesty chicken tikka poutine ($12) and a curry-spiced burger spread with mango chutney ($11). Cut the heat with a thick cardamom-yogurt lassi ($3) or tumbler of house-made chai tea.